treatment of viral conjunctivitis
Last reviewed 07/2021
Most cases are self-limiting and resolve within 1-2 weeks. Chloramphenicol eye drops may be applied to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
Hypromellose drops may provide a simple (and soothing) eyewash.
Steroids are contraindicated for herpetic infection as they convert the disease to a severe, greatly prolonged process.
Acyclovir treatment is of use in herpes simplex and varicella zoster.
§ adenoviral conjunctivitis
- viral replication is seen until two weeks after the onset of symptoms
- avoid close direct and indirect contact for two weeks (1)
Reference:
- Leibowitz HM.The Red Eye Leibowitz HM. NEJM 2000; 343:345.
- Prescribers' Journal 2000; 40 (2); 130-137.